Even before its start, the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 has been surrounded by drama and controversy. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has eventually consented to the hybrid format proposed by the ACC. The Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to begin on August 31, with six nations competing. Pakistan and Sri Lanka will share hosting duties for the Continental Cup.
Let’s take a peek at some of the Asia Cup’s greatest controversies throughout the years.
Gambhir vs Akmal
During the fourth encounter of the 2010 Asia Cup in Dambulla, former India opener Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal had a scuffle. Gambhir was trapped in front by Saeed Ajmal. Before leaving, Gambhir and Akmal engaged in an altercation and hurled a barrage of insults. MS Dhoni was required to intervene to halt the altercation.
Shakib reprimanded
In the 2016 Asia Cup, Bangladesh’s standout all-rounder Shakib al Hasan destroyed his stumps after being bowled by Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir. The ICC reprimanded Shakib for the incident.
Bhajji vs Akhtar
Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh and former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar clashed during a high-stakes Asia Cup match between the bitter rivals in 2001. In the final moments of the match, Akhtar abused Bhajji. However, Bhajji responded by blasting Mohammad Amir’s winning runs in the final over.
Dhoni vs Taskin
Before the 2016 Asia Cup final, an image of Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed carrying the severed skull of then-Indian captain MS Dhoni went viral on various social media platforms. Several Indian supporters and former cricketers responded vehemently to the incident.
BCCI vs PCB
The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were at odds over the Asia Cup 2023 hosting rights. In response to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, the Pakistani sports minister threatened that their team may request neutral venues for their forthcoming ODI World Cup 2023 encounters.
